Monopolice Set to Make Manila Debut with 2026 Tour for El Elefante
The Cebu-based band Monopolice is gearing up for its highly anticipated Manila debut this February, launching a nationwide 2026 tour to promote their debut album El Elefante. Since its release in July 2025, the album has steadily gained momentum, earning strong listener support and multiple mentions on year-end lists, setting the stage for this exciting live performance series.
Manila Shows and Tour Details
Monopolice's first Manila appearance is scheduled for February 20 at Sari Sari in Makati, as part of the Tether reunion show. This will be followed by a performance on February 22 at Saguijo, where they will share the stage with One Click Straight and other Manila acts. These Manila dates serve as the starting point for a broader tour that will extend to Monopolice's hometown of Cebu City and selected cities across the Visayas and Mindanao. Additional tour dates are expected to be announced in the coming months, promising more opportunities for fans to experience the band live.
Band Members Share Excitement and Challenges
Vocalist and guitarist Miguel Granada expressed enthusiasm for the tour, noting that for many attendees, this will be their first introduction to Monopolice or their first live experience. "We're working hard to put on a good, raw, and honest show. That's what our songs are about anyway," he said. Guitarist Karl Lucente added that the tour has been long-awaited, stating, "Our debut album El Elefante came out last year, and it's about time we take it on the road. We're really looking forward to seeing friends and finally sharing what we've been working on."
The band credits the positive reception of El Elefante as a key motivator for organizing a more extensive series of shows. Guitarist Cortz Cortes highlighted the album's impact, saying, "When we were working on the album, we rarely had gigs, so for listeners to support it the way they did was really great for us. Seeing it show up on year-end lists was a welcome surprise." However, Cortes will not be able to join the Manila performances due to medical reasons, though he remains an active band member and is expected to rejoin future tour dates upon recovery.
Special Releases and Future Plans
In support of the tour, Monopolice will release a limited-edition CD of El Elefante along with new merchandise. These items will be available at tour stops, through the Melt Records online store, and at Filla Killa Shop in Cebu. Additionally, the band is preparing to premiere the official music video for "Hunter," the final single released in July 2025 shortly before the full album, adding another layer of excitement for fans.
With the songs of El Elefante transitioning from recordings to live venues, Monopolice's 2026 tour marks a significant new chapter for the band. This tour offers their growing audience the chance to experience the music in person for the first time, solidifying their presence in the Philippine music scene and building on the album's success.
